GUANGXI & GUIZHOU
Guangxi and Guizhou represent China’s magnificent southwest, a land famed for its spectacular karst landscapes and profound ethnic minority cultures. This region is a tapestry of towering green peaks, terraced rice fields, and rushing waterfalls that feel truly otherworldly.
It’s a vibrant destination where the traditions of the Zhuang, Miao, Dong, and other groups flourish, offering an immersive journey into authentic Chinese heritage. The distinct culinary scenes, rich with sour and spicy flavors, also define this remarkable area.
Most Popular Attractions
Karst Peaks & Waterways (Guangxi-Guilin/Yangshuo Focus)
Li River (Li Jiang) Cruise: Journey between Guilin and Yangshuo, admiring the iconic karst mountains that are immortalized on the 20 Yuan banknote.
Yulong River: Enjoy a bamboo raft cruise down this serene tributary near Yangshuo, surrounded by pastoral scenery and rolling peaks.
Elephant Trunk Hill: The symbol of Guilin, a unique rock formation at the confluence of the Li and Taohua rivers.
Reed Flute Cave: An expansive, colorful karst cave in Guilin, famed for its beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations.
Moon Hill: A large archway on a karst peak near Yangshuo, which can be viewed or climbed for panoramic scenery.
Two Rivers and Four Lakes (Guilin): A scenic waterway system in the city center, beautiful for a day or night cruise.
Solitary Beauty Peak (Duxiu Feng) & Jingjiang Prince City: A solitary peak and the historic grounds of a former Ming dynasty prince in Guilin’s city core.
Detian Transnational Waterfall: One of Asia’s largest waterfalls, spanning the border between China and Vietnam.
Tongling Grand Canyon: A deep gorge in Guangxi, known for its unique waterfall that cascades down into the canyon floor.
Weizhou Island: China’s largest and youngest volcanic island, off the coast of Beihai, known for its beaches and Crocodile Mountain Geological Park.
Natural Wonders & Geoparks (Guizhou Focus)
Huangguoshu Waterfall: Asia’s largest waterfall complex and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, featuring the spectacular main fall and a hidden Water Curtain Cave.
Mount Fanjing (Fanjingshan): A UNESCO World Heritage site and sacred Buddhist mountain known for its surreal karst rock formations and rich biodiversity, notably the Mushroom Stone and its split summit temples.
Libo Xiaoqikong (Seven Arches) Scenic Area: A beautiful karst landscape in Guizhou, famous for its emerald rivers, forests, and the namesake Qing Dynasty bridge.
Wanfenglin (Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks): A vast, majestic karst peak forest complex in Guizhou, best explored by cycling through the valley floor.
Zhijin Cave National Geopark: One of China’s most magnificent and largest karst cave systems.
Dragon Palace Cave: A unique karst cave in Guizhou with an underground river that is explored by boat.
Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge: The world’s tallest bridge, offering extreme activities and spectacular views of the karst canyon below.
Malinghe Canyon: Known as the “Gallery of Waterfalls” for its steep cliffs and numerous cascades.
Ethnic Minority Culture & Ancient Towns
Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon’s Backbone): Stunning, massive rice terraces near Guilin, home to the Zhuang and Yao people, with famous viewpoints like Ping’an Village and Jinkeng Terraces.
Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village: The largest Miao village in the world, renowned for its thousand stilt houses clinging to the mountainsides, best seen at night.
Zhaoxing Dong Village: The largest and arguably most beautiful Dong village, famous for its magnificent Drum Towers and Wind and Rain Bridges.
Zhenyuan Ancient Town: A historic, riverside town in Guizhou known for its preserved traditional architecture, temples, and a section of the Miaojiang Great Wall.
Qingyan Ancient Town: A well-preserved fortress town near Guiyang, featuring ancient city walls and traditional Ming and Qing dynasty architecture.
Basha Miao Village: Acclaimed as the “last gunmen tribe in China,” this unique Miao village maintains a distinct, traditional lifestyle.
Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge: The most famous of the Dong minority’s traditional, nail-less wooden bridges, located near Sanjiang in Guangxi.
Jiabang Rice Terraces: Another breathtaking, intricate system of terraces in Guizhou, often featuring traditional stilt houses.
Activities & Experiences
Cruise the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo: Witness the world-famous karst peaks, which are so iconic they are featured on the Chinese 20 RMB banknote, from the water.
Hike the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces (Longji): Explore the stunning, undulating terraces near Guilin that change color with the seasons (mirroring water, lush green, or golden harvest).
Witness the Huangguoshu Waterfall: Visit the largest waterfall in China and East Asia, where you can walk behind the curtain of water in the famous Water Curtain Cave (Shuiliandong).
Explore the Minority Villages of Qiandongnan: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Miao and Dong people in authentic villages like Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village (the largest Miao village) and Zhaoxing Dong Village (the largest Dong village).
Hike to the Summit of Fanjingshan: Trek to the twin temples atop the sacred Buddhist mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique ‘Mushroom Stone’ and ethereal cloud views.
Raft or Kayak on the Yulong River: Enjoy a more serene bamboo raft or kayak ride through the dramatic karst landscape surrounding Yangshuo.
Attend a Local Minority Festival: Check the calendar for one of Guizhou’s “Hometown of a Thousand Festivals” to experience vibrant traditional costumes, Lusheng (bamboo pipe) performances, and feasting.
Take a Cooking Class for Sour & Spicy Cuisine: Learn to prepare classic local dishes like Guizhou Sour Soup Fish (Suan Tang Yu) or the DIY wrap-and-roll snack, Siwawa.
Visit the Wind and Rain Bridges: Admire the unique, intricate wooden architecture of the Dong people, such as the famous Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge in Guangxi or the structures in Zhaoxing.
Explore the Ancient Town of Zhenyuan: Stroll through this beautiful riverside town in Guizhou, which features traditional architecture and a night view illuminated by surrounding mountains.
Venture into the Karst Caves: Discover the massive underground networks like the Reed Flute Cave in Guilin or the Zhijin Cave in Guizhou, famous for their spectacular stalactite formations.
Local Tips & Transport
High-Speed Rail is Key: High-speed rail is the most efficient way to travel between the major cities like Guiyang (Guizhou) and Guilin (Guangxi), and to access regional hubs like Kaili and Congjiang. Book tickets in advance, especially during holidays.
Car/Private Driver is Recommended for Villages: While major towns are connected by public transport, accessing the more remote or authentic ethnic minority villages and natural parks often requires hiring a private car or driver. Public buses are an option but can be time-consuming and challenging without local language skills.
Local Transport within Scenic Areas: In places like Huangguoshu Waterfall and Longji Terraces, you will typically need to purchase a mandatory shuttle bus ticket to travel between the different viewpoints and sections of the large scenic areas.
App-Based Ride-Sharing: Use the local equivalent of ride-sharing apps, like DiDi (China’s version of Uber), in and between larger cities for reliable and convenient transportation.
Embrace the Spice and Sour: The local cuisine, particularly in Guizhou, is famous for its unique flavors that are both spicy (often with local chilies and peppercorns) and sour (from fermented rice or vegetables). Don’t be afraid to try the famous Sour Soup Fish.
The Concept of Ganbei (Bottoms Up): If you are invited to drink rice wine, especially in a minority village, you may be expected to perform a toast called ganbei. It’s a sign of respect, and while you won’t be forced to drink, a small sip or a polite refusal (aided by a guide) is best.
Prepare for Mountain Climate: Both provinces are mountainous and can be cool and humid, especially at night or in the mornings. Bring layers, rain gear, and comfortable hiking shoes, as many key sights involve trekking or long walks.
Mapping Apps: Google Maps is not accessible in China without a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Download local apps like Baidu Maps (Baidu Ditu) or Amap (Gaode Ditu) for accurate navigation and directions.
Cashless Payments: While cash is accepted, most transactions in China are handled via mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay. Setting up one of these (which often requires connecting to an international credit card) will make your life much easier, especially in smaller towns and for local snacks.
Hidden Gems
- Xiaoqikong Scenic Area: Often overlooked for the bigger names, this part of the Libo Karst area in Guizhou is a ‘fairyland’ of emerald lakes, waterfalls, and the ancient small stone bridge it’s named after.
- Wanfenglin (Ten Thousand Peaks Forest): Located in Xingyi, Guizhou, this vast area offers spectacular views of cone-shaped karst peaks rising from the plains, best explored by cycling or via a small train.
- Xingping Town (Guangxi): A quieter, more picturesque alternative to Yangshuo, which is the spot where the iconic 20 RMB view is actually photographed.
Top Restaurants
LAO KAI LI [$10-$20] – A famous and long-standing hot pot restaurant in Guiyang, well-known for its signature sour soup fish, a unique Guizhou specialty.
MISS SIWAWA [$7-$15] – Famous in Guiyang for the local specialty Siwawa (Guizhou-style vegetable spring rolls) and its uniquely flavored red sour soup.
Jin Bi Xuan [$6-$15] – A century-old heritage restaurant in Qingyan Ancient Town (near Guiyang) that is a must-visit for its signature braised pork trotters.
QIN YU WENG [$9-$18] – A Guiyang restaurant noted for its unique craftsmanship in creating classic delicacies, with the Tofu Pudding with Fish receiving rave reviews.
Hua Xi Fei Wan Niu Rou Fen [$2-$8] – A local favorite in Guiyang for light bites, famous for its Huaxi Beef Noodles, featuring a rich, delicious soup and thin-cut beef.
YAYA LEMON DUCK [$8-$15] – A popular spot in Nanning specializing in Guangxi Cuisine, famous for the local specialty, Lemon Duck.
Gui Xiao Chu [$10-$20] – A popular chain restaurant in Guangxi (with branches in Nanning) offering authentic and typical Guangxi local cuisine, perfect for trying a variety of regional dishes.
SHU CHU [$7-$15] – A local restaurant in Guiyang specializing in Guizhou cuisine, including local specialties like spicy fish in a hot pot and various local flavors.
ZUI Lijiang River Scenic Restaurant [$13-$25] – Offers Guangxi Cuisine in Guilin with a spectacular view of the Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill, and the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas.
PERCENT CUISINE [$11-$20] – A local restaurant in Yangshuo, popular for its Guangxi cuisine and a good option near the West Street area.
LAO BIAO JI [$8-$18] – A Liuzhou Cuisine restaurant in Nanning, famous for Luosi Yai Jiao Bao (spicy snail soup pot with stewed duck feet) and fried rice noodles in Liuzhou style.
Xin Da Xin Dou Mi Hotpot [$11-$22] – A well-established hotpot restaurant in Guiyang, founded in 1993, famous for the unique flavor of Guizhou Doumi (fermented rice) hotpot.
QIAN DA SHU DA PAI DANG [$8-$18] – A well-known local restaurant in Guiyang that serves a variety of traditional Guizhou dishes in a nostalgic, retro-style setting with an open visual kitchen.
Shu Ji Rice Noodle House [$2-$8] – A must-try local spot in Nanning for the signature Lao You Fen (Old Friend Rice Noodles) – a sour and spicy rice noodle soup.
La Cantina (Dongxixiang Alley) [$5-$12] – A simple local bar within Guilin’s Dongxixiang Alley, known for local snacks and a saturated atmosphere of local food vendors.
Aurora Restaurant [$70-$120] – An industry-acclaimed Western-style fine dining restaurant in Guiyang, offering panoramic city views from the 24th floor.
Akari [$140-$200] – An exquisite Japanese fine dining restaurant in Guiyang, located in the Hilton, with Zen-style decor and a focus on quality craftsmanship.
qian yuan nuo [$50-$80] – A Guiyang restaurant that uses intangible cultural heritage techniques to preserve distinctive Guizhou flavors, offering a refined take on local cuisine.
Bai Yun Restaurant (Banyan Tree Yangshuo) [$40-$70] – The high-end Cantonese restaurant located in the luxurious Banyan Tree Yangshuo, offering elegant dining in a beautiful setting.
QUAN SHANG RESTAURANT [$55-$90] – An intimate Cantonese restaurant in Guiyang known for its elegantly luxurious ambiance and professional service.
Babel French Restaurant & Bar [$50-$100] – A Western-style fine dining experience in Nanning, specializing in French cuisine and known for its elegant presentation and atmosphere.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
云霄酒廊·威士忌·鸡尾酒吧 (Cloud Bar & Whisky Cocktail Bar): An elegant and refined spot for cocktails and whisky lovers, located in the Na Lotus Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel in the Nanning International Exhibition Center/Wanxiang Mall area.
Pu Bar: Known as one of the hippest and most international places in Guiyang, this bar is famous for bringing in national and international rock/jazz acts and offers a wide selection of foreign beers and liquors.
The HIVE: A great spot for a night out with a friendly atmosphere, offering amazing drinks in Nanning, located in the Jinhu Square/Nanhu Park area.
Cats & Rabbits (猫兔酒吧): This downtown establishment in Guilin’s Xiufeng District is a low-key café by day but transforms into a rock-and-roll-vibe spot after dark, crafting creative cocktails tailored to your preferences and serving Indian food.
Bar Nostalgia: Situated in a secluded space away from the hustle in Guiyang’s Fountain Pool Area, this intimate bar is known for its collectible atmosphere and diverse drink menu.
Unico Bar (英之): An American-style space perfect for group hangouts in Guilin’s Xiufeng District, featuring fusion, funk, and reggae music. It serves coffee cocktails during the day and transitions to evening cocktails and whisky.
Her Bar: A chic and popular spot for bars and bistros in Nanning, found near the International Exhibition Center/Wanxiang Mall.
MMM BAR: Located in the Pearl Gallery Hotel in Guiyang’s Exhibition Area, this bar features black checkered wooden doors, setting the stage for an all-night party.
Small Circle of Friends: With a location at Da Xi Men (大西门) in Guiyang, this spot doubles as a coffee shop by day and a trendy party location at night, known as the home of Guiyang’s hip-hop scene.
Public House: Back Garden Irish Pub (后园爱尔兰酒吧): A long-standing, surprisingly relaxed pub in Guilin’s downtown core near Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, offering affordable beers, wine, and cocktails along with solid Western pub food.
Boom Pub: An industrial-style bar in Guiyang’s Fountain Pool Area that features a collision of American industrial and resort styles, with tailor-made lighting for every song.
Rooftop Bar (Guiyang): Located across from Guizhou Normal University’s back gate, this unique rooftop bar offers a modern, relaxed setting without the pressure to drink a lot, offering Chinese beer and wine.
MEZE-BAR: Found near the International Exhibition Center/Wanxiang Mall in Nanning, this bistro-bar is a great choice for evening drinks.
Soho Saloon (Beihai): A pub in the seaside city of Beihai, Guangxi, known for its lively nightlife atmosphere, located on Guizhou Road.
XK Pub: A popular tavern in Nanning’s Qingxiu District that offers a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beers and cocktails, in a relaxed social hub.
Soho Bar (Guiyang): A vibrant and trendy establishment in Guiyang’s Nanming District (near Huguo Road) that is part of a large chain, known for its creative cocktails and lively, energetic vibe. It is one of the popular nightclubs in the city, often found in Guiyang’s bar streets like Shaanxi Road.
ECHO Club: A large, popular club in Nanning known for its high-energy atmosphere, located in the Jinhu Square/Nanhu Park area.
Drip Club: Located in the Xingjin Tashan Yuefang Entertainment Block, the dedicated bar and club street of Guilin, this is a major venue for high-energy nightlife.
Superstar Club: Another premier high-energy nightclub found in Guilin’s dedicated entertainment block, Xingjin Tashan Yuefang, perfect for dancing.
Muse (Guiyang): A well-known club in Guiyang for dancing and a high-energy party atmosphere, often mentioned among the city’s premier nightlife spots.
TT club (Guiyang): A prominent nightclub in Guiyang offering a typical large-scale Chinese club experience.
Pink (Guiyang): One of the well-established nightclubs in Guiyang offering a dedicated space for dancing and late-night revelry.
FE Play (Guilin): Located in the Xingjin Tashan Yuefang Entertainment Block, this is another of the high-energy nightclubs defining Guilin’s modern nightlife.
Yangshuo Legend Bar: A popular and lively establishment right in the heart of Yangshuo’s famous West Street (Xi Jie), well-regarded for its vibrant atmosphere and being a central spot for tourists and locals.
Jiulong Nightclub: A professional discotheque in Guilin (near Nanmenqiao) offering multiple forms of entertainment beyond dancing, like KTV, billiards, and saunas.
Mengbi Karaoke Nightclub: A popular spot on Guilin’s Zhengyang Road known for its elegant surroundings and quality performances, offering dancing and shows in addition to KTV.